00:00I'd like to wish the whole country a very happy Christmas.
00:05Right now, all across the UK, people are travelling home to be with their loved ones.
00:11Children are bursting with excitement.
00:14Families are making the final preparations.
00:18Wrapping presents, hanging stockings, rushing out for last-minute bits.
00:23It's a truly special time of year.
00:26And it's a time to remind ourselves what's really important.
00:32Family, friends, community.
00:37It's a time to celebrate the Christmas story and to cherish the Christian values that define it.
00:43Peace, charity and goodwill to all.
00:47That is the promise of the season.
00:49And just as so many put their feet up, some truly special people will be pulling on their uniforms and heading out to work.
01:01Our NHS staff, emergency services and the brave men and women of our armed forces.
01:07All playing their part, doing their bit to care for the nation and to keep us safe.
01:16Many volunteers will be out there as well, serving food, reaching out to help those lonely or in need.
01:23So, on behalf of the whole country, I want to say a big thank you.
01:32As a nation, we should raise a glass to you this Christmas.
01:36But more than that, we should each do our bit as well.
01:40I know many across Britain are still struggling with the cost of living.
01:46Helping with that is my priority.
01:50But at this time of the year, which celebrates love and abundance,
01:55loss or hardship can feel even more acute.
02:01So, call round to a neighbour.
02:04Check in on a friend or a relative who you haven't heard from for a while.
02:08Well, reach out.
02:11It can make a huge difference.
02:14That's what Christmas is about.
02:17So, whether you're at home this evening, heading to work, heading to church or maybe heading to the pub,
02:27let's look forward and celebrate the joy and hope that Christmas brings.
02:31From my family to yours, to everyone in the United Kingdom,
02:36I hope you all have a very happy Christmas.
02:40I hope you all have a very happy Christmas.
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